The ignition cylinder lock is responsible for allowing the key to turn and start the vehicle. It works through a chamber and springs that can be damaged by environmental elements such as high or low temperatures.
If your ignition switch or key isn’t able to move, it could be a sign that the lock cylinder is damaged and must be replaced. This is a task best left to an auto locksmith professional.
Remove the Steering Column Covers
Ignition lock-cylinders are mechanical parts that allow a key into the ignition switch to be turned to turn off a vehicle. They can wear out or malfunction in a variety of ways, like keys that are placed too hard or not in the proper position. They can also degrade and fail due to corrosion or other reasons. If your ignition key replacement cost cylinder isn’t working and isn’t turning, it’s time to replace it. This is a simple job however, you’ll need to remove the cover of the steering column and the airbag cover. The process is dangerous and can be difficult. It could also require special tools for the replacement cylinder.
The ignition cylinder can be found in the middle column where the steering wheel is attached. The clip and two screws on the bottom secure the cylinder in position. It’s essential to remove these screws before you begin working on the cylinder, so that it doesn’t fall off and become lost.
After the screws are removed, you can remove the plastic retainers on the bottom of the cover. A metal retainer clips into the top of the cover to hold it in position. You may have to pull the cover off the steering wheel in order to take off the tabs made of plastic that are lower.
The tabs can be ripped off by taking off one of the retaining screws, and then bending the tab a bit. If the tab has been broken off completely you can replace it with a piece perforated metal strapping that can be found in most hardware shops. You’ll also require U-clips for the new bottom “tab,” and these can be bought from any automotive parts store.
After removing the plastic tabs and removing the airbag cover, it is now possible to reach the ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder. You can open the ignition lock using the 1/16-inch Allen wrench and push the retaining bolt for the cylinder. Then, you’ll be able to pull the cylinder away. It may be necessary to replace it with an anti-theft cylinder.
Remove the Ignition Cylinder
While many modern vehicles have been upgraded to push-to start systems, there are still a good number of cars in the market that require an ignition lock cylinder. This cylinder, which is mechanical, is housed in the electrically-powered component referred to as the “ignition switch” that locks the ignition, and “reads the anti-theft code within the car key before allowing it to turn on.
It may be time to call an auto locksmith if the vehicle is showing signs of a broken lock cylinder. A damaged cylinder can lead to various issues, including a lack of power from the engine, as well as issues with inserting and taking out the key. Keys that are damaged by wear can cause damage to wafer tumblers that let the cylinder to turn. This can cause an obstruction and stops the vehicle from getting started.
Depending on your model and the make the cover of your ignition switch can be secured with a screw or clip. With a screwdriver, loosen the screw, then remove the cover, revealing the cylinder for ignition lock. This is typically a metal cylinder, which is about the size of a quarter.
To take the cylinder off, you will need to drill the pin that holds it. Make use of a drill that’s slightly larger than the key slot, and drill directly into the cylinder until it is broken. You’ll then be able pull the cylinder out and replace it with a new.
The procedure to remove the ignition cylinder is different for each manufacturer, so it is necessary to review your service manual to determine what steps you need to take. After you have the cylinder removed, you are able to install the new ignition switch.
Before you can do this you’ll need to replace the covers on the steering column. Two screws will also be required to hold the lock assembly in place. Once you’ve completed this the installation of your new ignition cylinder shouldn’t prove to be too difficult.
Remove the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch and cylinder lock are two distinct parts of the electrical system in your car. Although they may look identical, you can repair or replace them on your own. The switch is the electronic component that supplies power to the vehicle while the cylinder is the mechanical tumbler your key slides into. In general, you can discern that the cylinder for ignition is not working because it is unable to turn your key.
When the cylinder fails and the pins inside the tumbler may wear out, making it difficult or impossible to insert or pull out your key. If you find that your key is damaged and isn’t turning the way you want it to, the best option is to have the wafers inside of it replaced or smoothed by a professional locksmith.
The ignition cylinder can be removed by removal of the bolt or screw depending on the model of your vehicle. Consult your vehicle’s manual before attempting this at home. It is a risk and cause damage to the steering column or the plastic covers. The switch is also connected with the airbag wiring. Making a mistake with it could cause serious injuries.
To remove the ignition coil, you will have to remove it using a drill. You may also use pliers to remove the cylinder from the assembly however, this is typically more difficult than using the screwdriver. Once the ignition cylinder is loose and you need to replace it with a new one from a local auto store.
You’ll need all the wires that are connected to the electrical connector on the steering column to test the operation. It is usually easier to disconnect the battery, and then remove the ignition key, and then start the vehicle. It is possible to reconnect the battery after the ignition has worked. If your vehicle is still unable to turn on, you will need to have your immobilizer system reset. This can be accomplished by a dealer or an automotive service technician. This is a lengthy procedure that should be left to an expert.
Install the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition switch in your car transmits a signal to the vehicle’s engine that it’s time for it to start. The key is inserted into a lock cylinder to trigger this process, but the pins and wafers inside the cylinder can wear down over time. This could make it difficult to turn your car on, or even impossible if the cylinder gets stuck.
If your car’s ignition key doesn’t turn, it’s likely that the cylinder that controls ignition has damaged and requires replacement. A professional locksmith can replace the cylinder using a similar one, meaning that your new key will function with the original ignition switch, and will be capable of activating the engine startup signal.
To remove the lock you need to press the release pin located at the bottom of the assembly and remove the cylinder from its housing. If the cylinder is unable to slide out, you can try pressing in the release pin, or use a small anti-rotation button on the front of the cylinder. You can also push down on the cylinder while adjusting the key to the ACC position or use an accessory to push it out.
Install the new cylinder and test it by turning the car on. If it’s working, connect the trim pieces that you removed to connect to the cylinder. After that, you can begin a relearning procedure to connect the new keys.
The ignition cylinder lock may not be as important to the functioning of your vehicle as it was in the past but there are situations where it is necessary to replace it. It is essential to talk to a professional such as an automotive locksmith or car dealership to ensure that the task is done in a safe manner without causing any damage to the steering column’s plastic covers or other parts in your vehicle. It is also essential to ensure that the new ignition cylinder has been correctly coded so that your vehicle recognizes it as an authentic key. In most cases this will require a dealership or other professional to perform the relearn.
